Professional Students Conference Highlights Gender Discrimination in Education

The 30th Global Professional Students Conference, held at Ahalia Campus in Kanjikode, Palakkad, has brought renewed focus to the persistent issue of gender-based discrimination within professional education systems across the region.

Conference delegates highlighted that women pursuing professional qualifications continue to encounter significant obstacles, particularly during internship phases of their programmes. These barriers range from unequal access to placement opportunities to discriminatory practices by employers and educational institutions.

The conference, which convenes professional students from multiple countries, has called for comprehensive action to address these systemic inequities. Participants emphasised the need for institutional reforms, stricter enforcement of anti-discrimination policies, and greater accountability from employers engaged in internship programmes.

Professional education institutions and industry bodies have been urged to create more inclusive frameworks that ensure women have equitable access to internship positions and workplace experiences. Delegates stressed that addressing these disparities is essential for developing a diverse professional workforce and ensuring equal career opportunities.

The conference underscored that eliminating discrimination in professional education remains a critical priority for achieving gender equality in the broader professional landscape across South and Southeast Asia.